WWE fans recognize her as Karen Best, but Summer Sorrell recently revealed on the LFG reality show the true reason her WWE career came to an end was not due to her performance. In an interview with Wrestling Zone, Summer explained that a serious back injury was the real cause behind WWE’s decision, despite her improving skills in the ring and on the mic.
Having a background in elite gymnastics and track and field, Summer entered WWE’s Performance Center with no wrestling experience but plenty of determination. Things were going well initially, but midway through training, she began experiencing persistent back pain. She reflected that throughout her athletic career, she rarely dealt with injuries, but the back pain became a significant challenge in wrestling, especially after the first six months, making even getting in and out of the ring painful.
Summer disclosed she was dealing with two bulging discs, and although WWE tried various treatments like injections, rehab, and cutting back her workload, the demanding training schedule left her little time to heal properly. She shared she received multiple shots over six months, but her symptoms didn’t improve.
The inconsistent training started to affect her not just physically but also in her career. Summer noted that sporadic appearances in the ring didn’t project a strong image. However, her release was not due to performance shortcomings; she was praised by coaches and WWE management alike. She accepts WWE’s decision, understanding it as part of the business, while firmly believing her time in wrestling isn’t over—she’s just on a break.
Currently focused on recovery, Summer is taking her time before returning to wrestling. She remains optimistic about returning to the sport someday, either with WWE or another promotion.
Though she didn’t grow up watching wrestling, Summer quickly fell in love with the sport. Though her initial WWE run was cut short, her journey in wrestling is far from finished.
Fan Take: This news highlights the harsh realities WWE talents face when dealing with injuries and the tough decisions promotions must make. For fans, it’s a reminder of the physical toll wrestling takes and the resilience required to succeed, suggesting a growing need for better support and recovery time for athletes in this sport.
